The best Post-Bop albums
of the 1980s.
Where to start with 1980–1989 post-bop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1980s — post-bop
Top picks from 1980–1989, ranked by where we would start.
Herbie Hancock
Sound-System
An adventurous blend of electro-funk and jazz rhythms, pushing the boundaries of sound through innovative synth textures.
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Herbie Hancock
Village Life
A vibrant fusion of jazz rhythms and African musical influences that transports listeners to a celebratory village atmosphere.
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Chick Corea
Three Quartets
A vibrant fusion of intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity, blending classical influences with jazz improvisation.
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Chick Corea
Septet
A rich tapestry of interwoven melodies and intricate rhythms showcases Corea's avant-garde jazz mastery.
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Sonny Rollins
Love at First Sight
A rich tapestry of post-bop jazz, weaving intricate melodies with soulful improvisation and a vibrant rhythm section.
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Sonny Rollins
No Problem
A vibrant blend of intricate melodies and rhythmic explorations, showcasing Rollins' improvisational brilliance and tonal versatility.
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Dave Liebman
Doin' It Again
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Archie Shepp
Splashes
A vibrant blend of post-bop improvisation and soulful melodies, reflecting Shepp's deep jazz roots.
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Archie Shepp
Looking at Bird
A tribute to bebop's giants, blending intricate melodies with Shepp's characteristic emotional depth and improvisational flair.
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Bill Evans
Loose Blues
A reflective blend of cool jazz and post-bop, characterized by intricate piano melodies and subtle rhythmic interplay.
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Ahmad Jamal
Pittsburgh
Lush, intricate melodies intertwine with rhythmic sophistication, reflecting Jamal's mastery of space and subtle dynamics in jazz.
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Ahmad Jamal
Rossiter Road
A meditative blend of intricate melodies and subtle rhythms, showcasing Jamal's mastery of cool jazz textures.
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Bill Frisell
In Line
A tapestry of ethereal melodies interwoven with intricate guitar improvisations, capturing the essence of early 80s jazz innovation.
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Bill Frisell
Before We Were Born
A tapestry of sprawling guitar melodies intertwines with eclectic rhythms and atmospheric soundscapes, bridging jazz with modern experimentalism.
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Larry Carlton
Strikes Twice
A blend of smooth jazz and rock, infused with bluesy guitar lines and intricate melodies that showcase Carlton's virtuosity.
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Larry Carlton
Alone / But Never Alone
A seamless blend of smooth jazz and blues infused with introspective melodies and heartfelt guitar solos.
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Jean-Luc Ponty
Open Mind
A seamless fusion of jazz and electronic elements, weaving intricate melodies with vibrant synth textures and dynamic rhythms.
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Jean-Luc Ponty
Mystical Adventures
A vibrant fusion of jazz and progressive rock, weaving intricate violin melodies through expansive sonic landscapes.
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Kenny Barron
Golden Lotus
A vibrant amalgamation of intricate melodies and rhythmic improvisation that embodies the essence of modern jazz.
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Kenny Barron
Spiral
A vibrant tapestry of intricate melodies and syncopated rhythms unfolds in dynamic interplay, showcasing the essence of post-bop jazz.
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Roy Ayers
Africa, Center of the World
A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and soul echoes a profound connection to African heritage and spirituality.
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Roy Ayers
You Might Be Surprised
A mellow fusion of jazz-funk and soulful melodies layered with rhythmic grooves, inviting listeners into a laid-back vibe.
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Pat Metheny
Rejoicing
A vibrant fusion of jazz, world music, and intricate melodies that showcase Metheny's signature guitar work and compositional depth.
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Pat Metheny
80/81
A vibrant fusion of jazz, folk, and world music that radiates warmth and intricate melodies.
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